Windward Islands

There is a continuing case for DFID support to the Windward Islands and to the Caribbean region more generally. Unacceptable levels of poverty, the increasing incidence of HIV and AIDS, vulnerability to the effects of economic globalisation and the associated risks of social instability and rising crime present significant challenges to regional governments.

If the region is to take full advantage of the opportunities created by globalisation, support is needed to help develop and implement Caribbean-led strategies to promote alternative enterprise and economic diversification while protecting the poor from the costs of transition

The case for continued UK development support to the Windward Islands rests on the extent to which we can ­ with others ­ support their efforts to tackle areas of poverty and, just as important, respond effectively to economic and physical threats which heighten their future vulnerability to poverty.

We will work to ensure a coherent UK approach towards the development interests of the Caribbean, as well as continuing to assist the capacity of the region effectively to represent their own interests internationally.

Last updated: 29 July 2004